Ready to crush your social work licensure exams? Join Shara Ruffin, CEO and Founder of Journey to Licensure, for real talk, expert tips, and live study sessions that break down everything you need to know to succeed. With over four years of hosting weekly study groups and empowering social workers to pass their BSW, MSW, and LCSW exams, Shara brings you actionable insights, motivational stories, and proven strategies to help you level up in your career.

Tune in for engaging discussions, real-world scenarios, and support from a thriving community of social work professionals. It’s not just studying—it’s a journey to your next big achievement!

Welcome to Journey to Licensure, the podcast designed to inspire, guide, and equip social workers on their path to passing the ASWB exams. Hosted by Shara Ruffin, this series features expert strategies, ethical insights, and powerful success stories from social workers who’ve overcome challenges to achieve licensure. Whether you’re tackling the BSW, MSW, or LCSW exam, find practical tips and motivation to turn obstacles into triumphs.

Stuck in the 90-day wait period to retake your exam? You’re not alone. In this heartfelt episode, Shara Ruffin shares her personal journey of failing the LCSW by just two points and the emotional toll of the waiting period—only to turn it into a time of growth and transformation. Learn how to use this time wisely to rebuild your mindset, focus on self-care, and prepare more effectively. With practical tips, affirmations, and encouragement, this episode will inspire you to transform your waiting period into a launchpad for success. Your setback is a setup for a stronger comeback—tune in and take the first step!

Are you afraid of sharing your licensing exam journey because of what others might think if you don’t pass? You’re not alone. The fear of public failure can be paralyzing, but your path to success is uniquely yours. In this episode, Shara Ruffin dives into why it’s okay to keep your journey private and focus on what matters most—your goals, your progress, and your belief in yourself. Learn how to create a supportive circle, let go of external pressure, and stay committed without fear of judgment. Your story is still being written, and you’re more than enough, just as you are. Tune in to embrace your journey on your terms.

Feeling the weight of the ticking clock on your licensing exam? You’re not alone. Many social workers face overwhelming pressure from employers, peers, and themselves to pass quickly, often with so much at stake. In this episode, Shara Ruffin shares insights on how the right support can break the cycle of ineffective methods and ease the stress of looming deadlines. Learn why asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, but a powerful strategy to save time, reduce anxiety, and secure your future. Tune in to discover how personalized guidance can set you on the path to success—at your pace, with a plan that works for you. Don’t let pressure corner you—your success starts here.

Have you failed your exam and fear trying again? You’re not alone—but failure doesn’t define your future; it’s just feedback. In this uplifting episode, Shara Ruffin shares her personal journey of overcoming the fear of failure after missing her exam by just two points. Learn how to turn setbacks into stepping stones, identify areas for growth, and rebuild your confidence one step at a time. Each attempt is a chance to grow stronger. Tune in and discover how resilience, focus, and determination can lead you to success. Your journey isn’t over—it’s just beginning!

Struggling to retain information no matter how much you study? You’re not alone. In this episode, Shara Ruffin shares effective strategies to boost retention and help the material finally stick. Learn how to use active recall, summarize concepts in your own words, and teach them to a study partner for maximum impact. It’s not about how much time you spend studying—it’s about how you study. Tune in to discover smarter, proven techniques that will build your confidence and prepare you for exam day success. Let’s make it stick!

Does the fear of never passing your exam haunt you? You’re not alone. In this empowering episode, Shara Ruffin shares her personal story of overcoming failure and the crippling doubts that come with it. Discover how to break free from unproductive study cycles, embrace smarter strategies, and shift your mindset toward progress. Fear doesn’t define your future—your persistence does. Tune in for actionable steps, inspiring insights, and a reminder that you’re closer to success than you think. Don’t give up—your journey is worth it.

Have exam setbacks left you feeling stuck and unmotivated? You’re not alone. In this episode, Shara Ruffin dives deep into the emotional toll of repeated failures and how to reignite your drive. Learn how to reconnect with your “why,” set small, achievable goals, and celebrate every step forward. Your setbacks don’t define you—your resilience does. Tune in for practical advice and inspiring encouragement to help you keep going, one step at a time, toward the finish line.

Feeling like you’ve forgotten everything you learned in school? You’re not alone! The ASW exams focus on academic knowledge, not the practical experience you’ve gained in the field, which can feel frustrating. In this episode, Shara Ruffin shares how going back to foundational theories, frameworks, and concepts can refresh your understanding and boost your confidence. Learn how to connect theory to practice and apply your knowledge effectively on exam day. Tune in for actionable tips to make your study process smarter and more effective!